Explain how the 2016 election was particularly unconventional as compared to previous elections. Focus your discussion on what we know about the traditional American two-party system of politics.

What will be an ideal response?

Students should discuss Donald Trump’s election victory and the candidacy of Senator Bernie Sanders how each appealed to voters that are angry with “politics as usual.” In a normal election year, each of these candidates would be seen as too far left or right for the party base to support, and in many ways this can be seen particularly in the campaign of Donald Trump. While Bernie Sanders would eventually go on to lose the nomination to political insider Hillary Clinton, Donald Trump won the election with the support of nontraditional party supporters and voters who have left the leadership of the party reeling. The theme of this election is “no more politics as usual,” and this can be seen in both instances. Students should also discuss the lack of party unity, particularly within the Republican Party and how this flies in the face of traditional political wisdom. This is particularly contrary to the responsible party model, which emphasizes cohesive party positions, a clear set of choices and the incorporation of all members’ voices into the party’s position on major issues. This has not been the case with the Republicans and to a great extent the Democrats as well. All said, this election may be a critical one with regard to the future of the existing traditional political parties.